Bunites Spangler has been the only member of the tribe Colymbetini for which the larva has been unknown. The first-instar larva of Bunites distigma (Brullé) is described and figured for the first time. Detailed morphometric and chaetotaxic analyses are provided. A phylogenetic analysis based on 41 first-instar larval characters, including members of six genera of Colymbetini, supports the hypothesis of a derived condition of Bunites within this tribe. Monophyly of Bunites Rhantus Dejean (s. lat.) (minus Rhantus orbignyi Balke) Neoscutopterus J. Balfour-Browne Meladema Laporte is suggested by four synapomorphies: an elongate and hair-like seta FE5 on both meso- and metafemur, and the presence of additional anteroventral setae on tibia and tarsus. The clade Bunites Neoscutopterus Meladema is supported by three synapomorphies: the presence of additional setae on the frontoclypeus, dorsal surface of parietal, and urogomphi. Six other character states might also support this group. The clade Bunites Meladema is well supported by four synapomorphies: the presence of additional setae on the lateromedial portion of frontoclypeus, ventral surface of parietal, anterodistal margin of prementum, and anterodorsal surface of tibia. A derived condition of Bunites within the Colymbetini is suggested by two autapomorphies: the presence of one additional seta on the coxa, and additional dorsal pores on the eighth abdominal segment.